Dr. Michelle Denise Mercer

Dr. Michelle Denise Mercer provides expert care for a wide range of dental and oral health conditions for patients of all ages, including but not limited to:

Common Dental Issues

• Sensitive Teeth (Dentin Hypersensitivity): Managing tooth sensitivity, identifying underlying causes like gum recession or enamel wear, and providing desensitizing treatments or advice.
• Toothache & Dental Pain (General): Experiencing pain in or around a tooth, which could indicate various underlying issues requiring diagnosis.

Preventative Oral Health Topics

• Need for Routine Dental Check-up & Cleaning: Understanding the importance of routine examinations and professional cleanings for long-term dental wellness.
• Questions about Dental Products (Toothpaste, Mouthwash, etc.): Seeking recommendations for suitable toothpaste, mouth Rinses, toothbrushes, or other oral hygiene aids.

Gum Disease Initial

• Mild to Moderate Periodontitis (Initial Management by GP): Initial therapy for periodontitis, including professional cleaning and strategies to control bacterial infection below the gumline.
• Gingivitis (Early Gum Disease): Managing bleeding, swollen, or tender gums through hygiene therapy and patient education.

Dental Pain Emergency

• Dental Trauma (e.g., Knocked-out or Dislodged Tooth - Emergency Care): Urgent assessment and treatment for injuries to teeth and supporting oral structures.
• Lost Filling or Crown: Repairing or replacing dental restorations that have failed or been lost.

This list offers some examples of conditions commonly addressed. A comprehensive diagnosis is always based on an individual assessment by Dr. Mercer. If your specific oral health concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic to discuss your needs and appropriate treatment options.

• Comprehensive Dental Examinations: Thorough oral health evaluations, including a detailed check of teeth, gums, soft tissues, jaw alignment, and screening for oral cancer.
• Oral Cancer Screening: Regular visual and tactile screening of the mouth, lips, tongue, and throat to detect any early signs of oral cancer or precancerous conditions.
• Consultation & Treatment Planning: Personalized consultations to discuss your dental concerns, treatment options, answer your questions, and develop a tailored treatment plan.
• Understanding Your Dental Treatment Plan: Fostering informed decision-making through comprehensive patient education about their dental health status and available treatment pathways.
• Custom Mouthguards (Sports & Night Guards for Bruxism): Personalized protective oral appliances, including athletic guards for impact protection and night guards to alleviate TMJ stress and prevent tooth wear.

Note: This list highlights some of the key services offered by Dr. Mercer. Not all services may be listed, and the suitability of any treatment depends on individual assessment. For a comprehensive understanding or to discuss your specific dental needs, please schedule a consultation.

All dental services by Dr. Michelle Denise Mercer adhere to scope of practice for Dentists in ON and standards of The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO).

At Port Dental, the focus is on partnering with you to achieve significant improvements in your oral health, address your specific dental concerns, and help you attain your desired smile. Dr. Mercer frequently works with patients towards outcomes such as:

• The path to improved oral wellness, especially when facing concerns about grinding their teeth so forcefully or frequently that their jaw muscles ached or they experienced morning headaches, involves working systematically towards feeling significantly more relaxed and calm during dental visits due to effective anxiety management strategies or sedation. Dr. Mercer expertly guides patients through this process so they can once again enjoy life's moments, including confidently recommending their dentist, {preferred_name}, to friends and family based on their positive experiences.
• A frequent and rewarding goal for patients seeing Dr. Mercer about their child having a pronounced fear of needles or injections at the dental office, requiring a very patient approach is to attain a significant reduction in jaw muscle soreness and tension headaches related to bruxism. This success not only improves oral health but also paves the way for them to re-engage with activities like their overall facial aesthetics being enhanced by well-planned dental and/or facial esthetic treatments.
• For patients where their child needing preventative dental sealants applied to their newly erupted permanent molars to protect against cavities is a primary concern, Dr. Mercer focuses on creating personalized treatment plans that culminate in their recurrent canker sores becoming less frequent or less severe with management strategies. This directly supports and enhances their ability to fully confidently eating sticky or chewy foods without fear of dislodging restorations or dentures.
• When patients discuss a tooth that had become very dark or discolored, perhaps after a past injury or previous root canal treatment, Dr. Mercer outlines a path to gaining a clear understanding of their child's orthodontic needs and the available treatment options, aiming to restore not just oral health but also the ability to comfortably experiencing the relief of a resolved dental infection and the return to normal comfort.

Your personalized dental treatment plan, developed in consultation with Dr. Mercer, will be carefully designed to help you reach your specific functional, aesthetic, and overall oral wellness objectives. Dr. Mercer is committed to empowering patients with the information and high-quality care needed to achieve and maintain a healthy, confident smile for life.

Port Dental, where Dr. Mercer practices, is situated in a central location within the Port Colborne neighborhood of Port Colborne. The clinic is conveniently located near local shops and community amenities and is accessible via major local public transit routes. Street parking and nearby lots offer accessible options for your visit.

Do I need a referral to see a general dentist like Dr. Mercer?

No, you generally do not need a referral from a physician or another healthcare provider to see a general dentist like Dr. Mercer for a check-up, cleaning, or consultation. You can usually book an appointment directly with Port Dental.

What payment options are available at Port Dental for dental services?

At Port Dental, we accept payment by cash, debit, and major credit cards (typically Visa and MasterCard). If you have dental insurance, please bring your policy information, and our administrative team will be happy to assist you with understanding your coverage and processing claims. For more extensive treatment plans, potential financing options can be discussed with our office manager.

What services does a General Dentist (Dentist) like Dr. Mercer typically provide?

A General Dentist like Dr. Mercer is the primary dental care provider for patients of all ages, offering a wide range of services including preventative care (check-ups, cleanings, X-rays, fluoride, sealants), restorative treatments (fillings, crowns, bridges), basic endodontics (root canals on less complex teeth), simple extractions, initial management of gum disease, and cosmetic procedures (like whitening or bonding). Dr. Mercer also educates patients on oral hygiene and refers to specialists for more complex needs.

Is dental treatment generally covered by provincial health plans like Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In ON, provincial health plans (like OHIP) typically do NOT cover most routine or major dental procedures performed in private dental clinics for the general population. Some specific, limited dental surgeries performed in a hospital setting might be covered. Most dental care costs are paid out-of-pocket by patients or through private dental insurance plans (often through employers) or government assistance programs for eligible groups (e.g., children from low-income families, seniors on specific benefits). Always verify any potential public coverage and check your private dental insurance details before treatment.

Are dental X-rays safe, and how often are they needed?

Dental X-rays are very safe, especially modern digital X-rays using minimal radiation. Protective lead aprons are used. X-rays are taken only when diagnostically necessary (e.g., for new patients, to check for decay, assess bone health). Dr. Mercer will determine the frequency based on your individual oral health, risk factors, and dental history, adhering to ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) guidelines.

What cosmetic dentistry options might Dr. Mercer offer to improve the appearance of my smile?

Dr. Mercer focuses on comprehensive general dentistry for overall oral health. While many restorative procedures also have excellent aesthetic outcomes, if you have specific advanced cosmetic concerns, they can discuss basic aesthetic improvements available or provide a referral to a dentist specializing in cosmetic procedures or a prosthodontist if more advanced treatment is desired.

What should I expect during my first dental visit with Dr. Mercer at Port Dental?

At your initial appointment, Dr. Mercer and the team at Port Dental will focus on getting to know you and your oral health. Expect to fill out a medical history form, have a discussion about any dental issues or goals you have, followed by a detailed examination of your mouth. Digital X-rays may be taken to get a complete picture. Based on this, Dr. Mercer will explain their assessment and any recommended treatments. It's a great time to ask questions.

How often should I (or my child) visit Dr. Mercer for a check-up and cleaning?

Generally, every 6 months for most patients for preventative care. Dr. Mercer will recommend a personalized schedule based on individual oral health needs, risk factors for cavities or gum disease, and existing conditions (e.g., some may need visits every 3-4 months). Follow Dr. Mercer's specific recommendation.

Port Dental
517 King Street
Port Colborne, ON, L3K 4H5

Phone: (905) 835-1231

Dr. Michelle Denise Mercer is a licensed Dentist in ON, regulated by The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO) under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 & Dentistry Act, 1991 (Ontario).

License Number: 11640

Verify registration with The Royal College of Dental Surgeons of Ontario (RCDSO): https://www.rcdso.org/find-a-dentist/search-results/dentist?id=11640

Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene are essential for maintaining overall health. Dr. Mercer and the team are committed to providing you with comprehensive dental care. If you have a dental emergency, please contact the clinic promptly. For after-hours emergencies that are life-threatening, proceed to the nearest hospital emergency department.